Twin Pondshttp://www.twinpondscenter.com
Integrative Health CenterMon, 12 Mar 2018 21:41:59 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.4.14Breaking a Sweat Exercising?http://www.twinpondscenter.com/breaking-a-sweat-exercising/
Mon, 19 Feb 2018 20:46:06 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8445Do it Easier and Better with The Feldenkrais Method® By Carolyn J. Reese The best exercise for me, so I thought, was to move fast and push myself as much as possible. Then I learned how important it is to exercise slowly and gently so that my body/mind system can work together more efficiently. Yes, when the body moves, the mind changes for the better! This new way of exercising has greatly helped with my arthritis and Post-Polio Syndrome. It is called…The Feldenkrais Method. WHAT OR WHO IS FELDENKRAIS? The “who” is Moshe’ Feldenkrais, a physicist, mechanical engineer and one of the first Western black belts. After reinjuring his knee, having surgery and going to rehab, the doctors told him that he might spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. His understanding of how the laws of gravity and motion affected the mechanics of movement allowed him to develop short exercises that helped educate his body in easier, more efficient movement patterns. He eventually used this knowledge to teach patients effective techniques for self-rehabilitation. THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD, based on the principles of physics and biomechanics, was developed from his experience and understanding of human physiology and the connection between mind and body. With this discipline, commands are carried from the brain to the muscles, tendons, joints, and skin, and then reports on their condition are sent back to the brain. The purpose is to improve movement patterns rather than treating specific injuries or illnesses. The Feldenkrais Method claims to be successful in training the nervous system to find new pathways around areas of damage. At first, lying on the floor in a relaxed way and moving slowly, I mean really slowly, didn’t make much sense! Little did I know that the slower I moved, the more my brain was engaged (mindful) and the more my body responded. Even visualizing a movement changes the brain and helps the body! Being a “senior,” has given me years of incorrect exercising and therapy, but now with the Feldenkrais way of exercising, I don’t […]

The best exercise for me, so I thought, was to move fast and push myself as much as possible. Then I learned how important it is to exercise slowly and gently so that my body/mind system can work together more efficiently. Yes, when the body moves, the mind changes for the better! This new way of exercising has greatly helped with my arthritis and Post-Polio Syndrome. It is called…The Feldenkrais Method.

WHAT OR WHO IS FELDENKRAIS? The “who” is Moshe’ Feldenkrais, a physicist, mechanical engineer and one of the first Western black belts. After reinjuring his knee, having surgery and going to rehab, the doctors told him that he might spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

His understanding of how the laws of gravity and motion affected the mechanics of movement allowed him to develop short exercises that helped educate his body in easier, more efficient movement patterns. He eventually used this knowledge to teach patients effective techniques for self-rehabilitation.

THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD, based on the principles of physics and biomechanics, was developed from his experience and understanding of human physiology and the connection between mind and body.

With this discipline, commands are carried from the brain to the muscles, tendons, joints, and skin, and then reports on their condition are sent back to the brain. The purpose is to improve movement patterns rather than treating specific injuries or illnesses.

The Feldenkrais Method claims to be successful in training the nervous system to find new pathways around areas of damage.

At first, lying on the floor in a relaxed way and moving slowly, I mean really slowly, didn’t make much sense! Little did I know that the slower I moved, the more my brain was engaged (mindful) and the more my body responded. Even visualizing a movement changes the brain and helps the body! Being a “senior,” has given me years of incorrect exercising and therapy, but now with the Feldenkrais way of exercising, I don’t have to worry about hurting myself the way I used to and my body is retaining the improvements I made.

The Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movementclasses consist of a series of verbally directed and carefully structured movement sequences involving the body and the imagination. The movements are performed in a variety of positions – lying down, sitting, standing – which address a range of functions necessary for the safe, effective and powerful use of one’s body.

This safe and easy way of exercising can help with:

Reducing pain, back and neck aches, headaches

Re-educating the brain and nervous system to develop new ways of moving and perceiving the body

Orthopedic problems in bones and joints (poor posture or habits of movement that may cause pain)

“…the Feldenkrais Method can undo many of the aches and pains that plague us, and I currently recommend it to patients whose movement has been restricted by injury or chronic pain. I also believe the Feldenkrais Method can help older people achieve greater range of motion and flexibility, and help all of us feel more comfortable in our bodies.” –Andrew Weil, MD

This style of exercise is not only revolutionary, but an enlightening experience!

]]>What Your Brain Needs You to Dohttp://www.twinpondscenter.com/what-your-brain-needs-you-to-do/
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 18:31:37 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8374by Meg Deak Do you get laser focused on the things you need to do, and then get that wired/tired feeling? Are you so intent on what you’re doing, you have trouble seeing the forest for the trees? Is it hard to get to sleep? When you are focused – paying attention, thinking, planning, even worrying – your brain is processing in a brainwave state known as Beta. The electrical activity of Beta ranges from 12 to 38 HZ, or cycles per second, which is pretty fast. Now focusing is a really great thing, especially in our ADHD world. The trouble comes when we get stuck in that gear. We can’t or won’t stop thinking. Too much of a good thing is too much. When our brains are processing fast, it takes a lot of energy. When something revs up for a long time, it’s likely to burn out. Your brain needs to slow down, take mini-breaks. Alpha Is the next level of processing, or awareness. Slowing down the brain’s electrical activity to between 8 and 12 HZ, opens your awareness and takes it inside. It’s like widening a lens that has been focused on an ant, walking up a tree. You open up to take in the whole tree, and then become aware of the forest. Notice the crossover around 12 HZ – at the high end of Alpha and the low end of Beta. There’s the sweet-spot, where we get into a relaxed, focused state. Imagine being able to see the big picture in a usually stressful planning meeting. Next, we move down into Theta, 3 to 8 HZ, which is a story all its own and best saved for another time. Hint: think learning, creativity and psychological health. Delta is the deep, sleep-through-a-thunder-storm kind of sleep. Its slow brainwave activity of .5 to 3 HZ is the state where the body heals and repairs itself. Large quantities of DHEA, the growth hormone, are released; it’s natural anti-aging. So, what does your brain need you to do? Let it slow down: Take a mini-break every 90 minutes, […]

Do you get laser focused on the things you need to do, and then get that wired/tired feeling?

Are you so intent on what you’re doing, you have trouble seeing the forest for the trees?

Is it hard to get to sleep?

When you are focused – paying attention, thinking, planning, even worrying – your brain is processing in a brainwave state known as Beta. The electrical activity of Beta ranges from 12 to 38 HZ, or cycles per second, which is pretty fast.

Now focusing is a really great thing, especially in our ADHD world. The trouble comes when we get stuck in that gear. We can’t or won’t stop thinking. Too much of a good thing is too much. When our brains are processing fast, it takes a lot of energy. When something revs up for a long time, it’s likely to burn out.

Your brain needs to slow down, take mini-breaks.

Alpha Is the next level of processing, or awareness. Slowing down the brain’s electrical activity to between 8 and 12 HZ, opens your awareness and takes it inside. It’s like widening a lens that has been focused on an ant, walking up a tree. You open up to take in the whole tree, and then become aware of the forest.

Notice the crossover around 12 HZ – at the high end of Alpha and the low end of Beta. There’s the sweet-spot, where we get into a relaxed, focused state. Imagine being able to see the big picture in a usually stressful planning meeting.

Next, we move down into Theta, 3 to 8 HZ, which is a story all its own and best saved for another time. Hint: think learning, creativity and psychological health.

Delta is the deep, sleep-through-a-thunder-storm kind of sleep. Its slow brainwave activity of .5 to 3 HZ is the state where the body heals and repairs itself. Large quantities of DHEA, the growth hormone, are released; it’s natural anti-aging.

So, what does your brain need you to do?

Let it slow down:

Take a mini-break every 90 minutes, where you get up and walk around, look out a window.

Close your eyes and gently hum on one long tone.

Turn off the music, TV, computer, phone for at least ½ hour. How long can you live in the silence? An hour? How about 2?

Learn to meditate

If you have trouble meditating, or find yourself unable to slow things down, try ourVibroacoustic Sound Chair with Brainwave Entrainment. Our system uses specialized audio recordings with a uniquely-designed sound/light system and vibro-acoustic chair to help change your brainwaves. These changes allow you to reach deeper states of relaxation and awareness.

Increase your brain’s efficiency, manage stress, sleep better, remember what it feels like to be deeply relaxed – these are all within reach. Call Meg at 610-504-4830 to see how we can help.

]]>Achieve Strong Boneshttp://www.twinpondscenter.com/achieve-strong-bones/
Wed, 10 Jan 2018 22:52:24 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8307Are you aware of the condition of your bones? Are you an Osteoporosis statistic? Osteoporosis, a disease in which the density and quality of bone are reduced, is a common condition around the world. One in 3 women and one in 5 men are at risk of an osteoporotic fracture which is estimated to occur every three seconds. The good news is there are many steps that can be taken to prevent and help osteoporosis. It is now a treatable condition with a combination of appropriate nutrition and lifestyle changes. POSITIVE BONE INFLUENCES: Nutrients & Balanced Diet • Calcium – 1,200 mg daily Dairy, almonds, broccoli, kale, canned salmon with bones, sardines • Vitamin D – 600-800 IU or more Tuna and sardines, egg yolks, fortified milk – sunlight is the primary source • Magnesium – 400-800 mg daily Green vegetables, almonds, black beans, kidney beans, nut butters, whole wheat bread • Vitamin K − 50-100 mcg Leafy green vegetables, spinach, kale, broccoli, peas, green beans • Eat an alkalizing diet – healthy pH value ranges from 7-14 Fruits, nuts, legumes and vegetables • Eat raw cultured dairy: Kefir, yogurt, and raw cheese contain calcium, magnesium, vitamin K2, phosphorus, and vitamins B12, A, C, and D It is always best to eat fresh, organic and unprocessed foods for overall good health. Talk with your doctor and ask for recommendations for your specific needs before making any dietary changes or taking any supplements. Staying Physically Active Exercising if you have osteoporosis means finding the safest, most enjoyable activities for you given your overall health and amount of bone loss. There’s no one-size-fits-all prescription. NEGATIVE BONE INFLUENCES: • Sodium (increases calcium excretion through the urine) – no more than 2,300 mg / day • Smoking and excessive alcohol use (no more than one drink per day) • Stress should be minimized GUIDANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY THE FOLLOWING MODALITIES CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE STRONG BONES: Many times people know what to do yet still fail to follow through. With the right Guidance and Accountability led by a practitioner, privately or in a group – […]

Osteoporosis, a disease in which the density and quality of bone are reduced, is a common condition around the world. One in 3 women and one in 5 men are at risk of an osteoporotic fracture which is estimated to occur every three seconds.

The good news is there are many steps that can be taken to prevent and help osteoporosis. It is now a treatable condition with a combination of appropriate nutrition and lifestyle changes.

It is always best to eat fresh, organic and unprocessed foods for overall good health. Talk with your doctor and ask for recommendations for your specific needs before making any dietary changes or taking any supplements.

Staying Physically Active
Exercising if you have osteoporosis means finding the safest, most enjoyable activities for you given your overall health and amount of bone loss. There’s no one-size-fits-all prescription.

NEGATIVE BONE INFLUENCES:
• Sodium (increases calcium excretion through the urine) – no more than 2,300 mg / day
• Smoking and excessive alcohol use (no more than one drink per day)
• Stress should be minimized

GUIDANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

THE FOLLOWING MODALITIES CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE STRONG BONES:
Many times people know what to do yet still fail to follow through. With the right Guidance and Accountability led by a practitioner, privately or in a group – you can receive the warm feeling of friendship, closeness and loyalty that makes your health transformation not only fun but rewarding.

]]>Resolution for 2018: Make Confusion a Joy!http://www.twinpondscenter.com/resolution-for-2018-make-confusion-a-joy/
Sat, 30 Dec 2017 15:41:55 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8299by Betsy Wetzig, BA, CCPT Do you ever find confusion, disturbing or just plain wrong? Many people have an essential need to: get data in order, with a “cause and effect” correctness, and to move from one correct step to the next with “think first” as a priority. Others have a fierce need for clarity. The USA culture for the most part looks down on confusion. Even speech is pushed toward political correctness and clarity. BUT, To be our best self, everyone needs randomness and playful confusion as well as correctness and clarity. Why It Happens and Helps Us: Randomness, paradox and thus “confusion” are aspects of reality. Ignoring and avoiding them is a dis-service to ourselves and others. Life changes and the correct structures we build often crumble or shift suddenly. Accepting confusion as good gives us time to change and improve. Sometimes people important to us (especially children) impose their randomness and play on us. Our acceptance of this confusion leads to better communication and relationship? In certain behaviors such as change management, forgiveness, and mourning, confusion is part of the process and can be a useful and healthful tool. Though we are genetically programmed to prefer certain ways of functioning (personality types and styles), we all need all our biological, movement-mind Dynamics and Style Types to utilize our full brain and movement abilities. (Driver-Thrust-Sensating, Organizer-Shape-Thinking, Collaborator-Swing-Feeling, Explorer-Hang-Intuition). The Collaborator and Explorer Patterns both function with essential randomness and confusion. These “confusion” abilities are in us all, although many have been trained to ignore them. Some of Confusion’s Abilities and Joys: Using randomness and chaotic playfulness is fun and childlike. It can help everyone be younger at heart. It is one reason why young children learn with such speed and ability, and can improve adults learning abilities as well. Acceptance of confusion can help people let go of anger towards people functioning the “wrong” way. Holding and playing with confusion and paradox leads to increased and productive creativity. This is true for science as well as the arts. Total correctness and order leads to immobility. Our brain gets into a habit of correctness. […]

Do you ever find confusion, disturbing or just plain wrong? Many people have an essential need to:

get data in order, with a “cause and effect” correctness, and

to move from one correct step to the next with “think first” as a priority.

Others have a fierce need for clarity. The USA culture for the most part looks down on confusion. Even speech is pushed toward political correctness and clarity. BUT, To be our best self, everyone needs randomness and playful confusion as well as correctness and clarity.

Why It Happens and Helps Us:

Randomness, paradox and thus “confusion” are aspects of reality. Ignoring and avoiding them is a dis-service to ourselves and others.

Life changes and the correct structures we build often crumble or shift suddenly. Accepting confusion as good gives us time to change and improve.

Sometimes people important to us (especially children) impose their randomness and play on us. Our acceptance of this confusion leads to better communication and relationship?

In certain behaviors such as change management, forgiveness, and mourning, confusion is part of the process and can be a useful and healthful tool.

Though we are genetically programmed to prefer certain ways of functioning (personality types and styles), we all need all our biological, movement-mind Dynamics and Style Types to utilize our full brain and movement abilities. (Driver-Thrust-Sensating, Organizer-Shape-Thinking, Collaborator-Swing-Feeling, Explorer-Hang-Intuition). The Collaborator and Explorer Patterns both function with essential randomness and confusion. These “confusion” abilities are in us all, although many have been trained to ignore them.

Some of Confusion’s Abilities and Joys:

Using randomness and chaotic playfulness is fun and childlike. It can help everyone be younger at heart. It is one reason why young children learn with such speed and ability, and can improve adults learning abilities as well.

Acceptance of confusion can help people let go of anger towards people functioning the “wrong” way.

Holding and playing with confusion and paradox leads to increased and productive creativity. This is true for science as well as the arts.

Total correctness and order leads to immobility. Our brain gets into a habit of correctness. We can constantly do and think the same things, the same way, over and over again. Accepting confusion, especially playful confusion, can free us.

]]>Un-Forgiveness Hurtshttp://www.twinpondscenter.com/un-forgiveness-hurts/
Mon, 13 Nov 2017 22:26:57 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8213by Betsy Wetzig, BA, CCPT Un-forgiveness hurts us both physically and mentally because the whole forgiveness process ( from the moment we receive the injury or loss, until the moment we can finally forgive) is a bio-electric process of our basic self. We each have a neuromuscular, bio-electric nerve-muscular-brain system. It is our body-mind link. It is what makes us psychosomatic, but its “not all in your head!” 1) We receive the hurt and react with our habituated stress reactions >. Might be tightening ribs, or back of neck or any place in your body you have often reacted to stress. Our brain is put on alert… “Danger, Danger.” Plus our old chronic pains often show up. 2) We are reminded or think of the hurt. > Our “gut” reacts. Emotions are both physical and mental. Our brain may get stuck in a loop of anger, depression, and fear. Ye old chronic pains act up…backache, headaches or more. 3) We try to will our forgiveness but it doesn’t work because all behavior is both physical and mental and willing won’t make a difference without the physical half of our ‘self.” Un-forgiveness gets stuck in our whole being. >>>GOOD NEWS…. Our forgiveness process is part of our DNA and can be fully accessed with the same bio-electric processes that get us stuck. Your Coordination Patterns and Dynamics are the bio-electric system of the mind-body and movement-mind link. The Forgiveness Workshop on Dec. 2nd at Twin Ponds will teach you how to use this system with fun, simple movement exercises and understanding. “For 10 years I could not completely forgive two friends who hurt me during my husband’s funeral,,, but within the 3 hours of Betsy’s workshop the deed was done!” *Seattle, WA Workshop Participant.

Un-forgiveness hurts us both physically and mentally because the whole forgiveness process ( from the moment we receive the injury or loss, until the moment we can finally forgive) is a bio-electric process of our basic self. We each have a neuromuscular, bio-electric nerve-muscular-brain system. It is our body-mind link. It is what makes us psychosomatic, but its “not all in your head!”

1) We receive the hurt and react with our habituated stress reactions >. Might be tightening ribs, or back of neck or any place in your body you have often reacted to stress. Our brain is put on alert… “Danger, Danger.” Plus our old chronic pains often show up.

2) We are reminded or think of the hurt. > Our “gut” reacts. Emotions are both physical and mental. Our brain may get stuck in a loop of anger, depression, and fear. Ye old chronic pains act up…backache, headaches or more.

3) We try to will our forgiveness but it doesn’t work because all behavior is both physical and mental and willing won’t make a difference without the physical half of our ‘self.” Un-forgiveness gets stuck in our whole being.

>>>GOOD NEWS…. Our forgiveness process is part of our DNA and can be fully accessed with the same bio-electric processes that get us stuck. Your Coordination Patterns and Dynamics are the bio-electric system of the mind-body and movement-mind link.

The Forgiveness Workshop on Dec. 2nd at Twin Ponds will teach you how to use this system with fun, simple movement exercises and understanding.

“For 10 years I could not completely forgive two friends who hurt me during my husband’s funeral,,, but within the 3 hours of Betsy’s workshop the deed was done!” *Seattle, WA Workshop Participant.

]]>Walking and Exercise Can Injure YOU!http://www.twinpondscenter.com/walking-and-exercise-can-injure-you/
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 00:37:19 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8192by Betsy Wetzig, BA, CCPT Doctors often recommend walking for all kind of health reasons including overweight, anxiety, depression, and fitness. But over time walking and exercising the wrong way can injure you. In fact you may be experiencing these injuries already especially if you have chronic pain (which may come and go) in any joint. Even headaches and pain in your lower back, neck or shoulders can be caused by improper walking and exercise. It can also make you less able to handle stress, cause you a lack of energy, poor immune system, aging before your time and more. Constantly going back to the Chiropractor or Massage Therapist with the same set of tight muscles and pain is a big red flag! Who taught you how to walk? What IS the correct, ergonomic way to walk and how can you achieve it? Coordination Pattern™ Training is THE Answer! You have built into your movement-mind-body neuromuscular link, a system that can bring you an ergonomic walk and movement. Simple, easy, exercises, that work at the neuromuscular level, WILL improve: posture, balance, coordination, core strength, joint mobility, and the way you walk and exercise. Classes meet each Tuesday and Thursday from 3-4 pm Meet Betsy at the Twin Ponds Center 10-Year Anniversary on Sunday, October 22 from 10 to 4 pm. Read more about Coordination Pattern Training.

Doctors often recommend walking for all kind of health reasons including overweight, anxiety, depression, and fitness. But over time walking and exercising the wrong way can injure you. In fact you may be experiencing these injuries already especially if you have chronic pain (which may come and go) in any joint. Even headaches and pain in your lower back, neck or shoulders can be caused by improper walking and exercise. It can also make you less able to handle stress, cause you a lack of energy, poor immune system, aging before your time and more.

Constantly going back to the Chiropractor or Massage Therapist with the same set of tight muscles and pain is a big red flag! Who taught you how to walk? What IS the correct, ergonomic way to walk and how can you achieve it?

Coordination Pattern™ Training is THE Answer!

You have built into your movement-mind-body neuromuscular link, a system that can bring you an ergonomic walk and movement. Simple, easy, exercises, that work at the neuromuscular level, WILL improve: posture, balance, coordination, core strength, joint mobility, and the way you walk and exercise.

]]>A Gut Feelinghttp://www.twinpondscenter.com/a-gut-feeling/
Sun, 17 Sep 2017 23:24:24 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8150Launches a Decade of Growth by Carolyn J. Reese Listening to my “gut feeling” ten years ago has helped many people with stress, physical aches and pains, along with mental and emotional challenges. The message I received from my gut was that it would be very convenient to have highly-trained holistic practitioners collaborating under one roof for natural health and wellness. This was very appealing to me because I not only knew that I needed it, but I felt as though our community could also benefit from such a place. This realization wasn’t slow, but an “aha moment” that came like a bolt of lightening – a gut feeling, an intuition that I knew I wanted, and needed to act upon it. Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center was opened with a hand full of holistic practitioners and over the last ten years has grown to more than twenty experts in their various fields of natural health modalities. This Center has become one of our country’s most diverse holistic health centers. It continues to grow and always welcomes additional practitioners to join our team. Our holistic practitioners are committed to facilitating a way of life that moves one towards vitality, optimum wellness and awareness. In our safe, supportive environment, people can learn natural healing techniques to address: pain, joint and muscles stress, sleep difficulties and relaxation optimal brain function nutrition and lifestyle support emotional distress of anger, fear, guilt and sadness disease and illness success in all areas of life The real blessing of the Center is not only the dedicated practitioners, but all the clients and patients who have come to achieve health maintenance, improve their lives and recover from illness or pain. Our “Coming Events” to help with these issues are: September: 16th – Unlocking Your Voice, A Sound Healing Workshop October 22nd – 10 Year Anniversary Celebration & Parkinson’s Fund Raiser November 4th – Parkinson & MS Retreat November 11th – Enjoy Healthy Holiday Eating Workshop December 2nd – Forgive to Let Go Retreat December 16th – Tapping Into Joy […]

Listening to my “gut feeling” ten years ago has helped many people with stress,physical aches and pains, along with mental and emotional challenges.The message I received from my gut was that it would be very convenient to have highly-trained holistic practitioners collaborating under one roof for natural health and wellness. This was very appealing to me because I not only knew that I needed it, but I felt as though our community could also benefit from such a place. This realization wasn’t slow, but an “aha moment” that came like a bolt of lightening – a gut feeling, an intuition that I knew I wanted, and needed to act upon it.

Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center was opened with a hand full of holistic practitioners and over the last ten years has grown to more than twenty experts in their various fields of natural health modalities. This Center has become one of our country’s most diverse holistic health centers. It continues to grow and always welcomes additional practitioners to join our team.

Our holistic practitioners are committed to facilitating a way of life that moves one towards vitality, optimum wellness and awareness. In our safe, supportive environment, people can learn natural healing techniques to address:

pain, joint and muscles

stress, sleep difficulties and relaxation

optimal brain function

nutrition and lifestyle support

emotional distress of anger, fear, guilt and sadness

disease and illness

success in all areas of life

The real blessing of the Center is not only the dedicated practitioners, but all the clients and patients who have come to achieve health maintenance, improve their lives and recover from illness or pain.

Retreat Days: Programs designed for Individuals, Corporations and Organizations

Food & Lifestyle Support Program

Our practitioners believe in holistic health that considers the whole person – body, mind, emotions and spirit and collaborate to help our clients become healthier.

Albert Einstein once said that intuition is our most valuable asset, and one of our most unused senses. He described it as “a feeling for the order lying behind the appearance of something.” Sometimes it is referred to as gut feeling, sixth sense, innate wisdom, inner sense, instinct, inner voice, or spiritual guide.

If your “gut” talks to you, don’t ignore it! It is a powerful message and can be a big blessing to you and others as well. I believe my whole life prepared me to open Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center, but it was listening to my “gut” that launched this amazing place for healing.

]]>Is There Untapped Power in Your Voice?http://www.twinpondscenter.com/is-there-untapped-power-in-your-voice/
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 14:00:09 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=8141Do you know that you can increase your energy, become more calm and focused, and release pain and tension – all with the sound of your own voice? Make Sound! We are wired for vocal expression; we’re supposed to make sound. As infants we came into the world wailing and then spent years learning to be quiet. Sometimes, those lessons were less than ideal. How many times in your life was there a command to be quiet? How well did you learn to stuff your feelings? How often did hold your tongue because it wasn’t safe or because no one would pay attention anyway? And, were you someone who was told you can’t or shouldn’t sing? Toning is a process to begin to free your voice – to free your bodyvoice. It starts with audible sighs, yawns, and groans. Letting yourself make sound, giving yourself permission to sound sends a message of freedom to your body. You may be surprised by what comes out. Creating a resonant sound with your voice can relieve pain. The next time you feel a headache coming on, instead of reaching for a bottle of pain reliever, find a pitch that resonates or vibrates in your head and gently tone on “ee.” If you’re feeling grouchy, add a smile, even if you really don’t feel like smiling, and see what happens. Your journey to free yourself begins here.

]]>Do you know that you can increase your energy, become more calm and focused, and release pain and tension – all with the sound of your own voice?

Make Sound!

We are wired for vocal expression; we’re supposed to make sound. As infants we came into the world wailing and then spent years learning to be quiet. Sometimes, those lessons were less than ideal.

How many times in your life was there a command to be quiet? How well did you learn to stuff your feelings? How often did hold your tongue because it wasn’t safe or because no one would pay attention anyway? And, were you someone who was told you can’t or shouldn’t sing?

Toning is a process to begin to free your voice – to free your bodyvoice. It starts with audible sighs, yawns, and groans. Letting yourself make sound, giving yourself permission to sound sends a message of freedom to your body. You may be surprised by what comes out.

Creating a resonant sound with your voice can relieve pain. The next time you feel a headache coming on, instead of reaching for a bottle of pain reliever, find a pitch that resonates or vibrates in your head and gently tone on “ee.” If you’re feeling grouchy, add a smile, even if you really don’t feel like smiling, and see what happens.

]]>Help for My Muscles – Finally!http://www.twinpondscenter.com/help-for-my-muscles-finally/
Mon, 13 Mar 2017 23:39:42 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=7970With the Multimaster Pilates Table by Carolyn Reese The warning from a Polio specialist in the 50’s was to not over-tax my muscles or I would lose the strength of the muscles affected by the Polio virus. But, as most of us do, I went on with life not believing that would happen to me. However, the weakness crept up slowly and is now to the point that I need to use an electric scooter if I want to go any distance; for short distances I use a cane. An amazing electronic table called the Multimaster Pilates, a power assisted exercise and rehabilitation machine, is now giving me the hope for stronger muscles and easier walking that I thought I would never have again. Physical therapy couldn’t help. It was too strenuous and I wasn’t able to improve fast enough for the insurance to cover it. I have tried other exercises and always seemed to end up in pain and discouraged, and consequently stopped doing them. So, where does that leave me? I have admitted that I’m tired of trying and just want to go on with life the best I can – even working daily at my business of owning and managing a large holistic health center. I have jokingly been accused of building my own old-age rehab. Even with all the good intentions of the practitioners, I still have major muscle weakness in my legs and core muscles. Recently, I found out about toning tables. One of the practitioners, who has helped me over the years, and I did some research and found a company in England that makes the Multimaster Pilates Table. What a coincidence that the table was developed in the 1930’s by Bernard Stauffer, a physiotherapist, whose wife suffered from Polio. He wanted to find a way of improving her mobility, flexibility and circulation without having to spend a lot of time massaging and manipulating her each day…and it worked! Since then it has been on the cutting edge of health care – especially in Europe. The unbelievable advantage of this table is that it […]

The warning from a Polio specialist in the 50’s was to not over-tax my muscles or I would lose the strength of the muscles affected by the Polio virus. But, as most of us do, I went on with life not believing that would happen to me. However, the weakness crept up slowly and is now to the point that I need to use an electric scooter if I want to go any distance; for short distances I use a cane.

An amazing electronic table called the Multimaster Pilates, a power assisted exercise and rehabilitation machine, is now giving me the hope for stronger muscles and easier walking that I thought I would never have again.

Physical therapy couldn’t help. It was too strenuous and I wasn’t able to improve fast enough for the insurance to cover it. I have tried other exercises and always seemed to end up in pain and discouraged, and consequently stopped doing them. So, where does that leave me? I have admitted that I’m tired of trying and just want to go on with life the best I can – even working daily at my business of owning and managing a large holistic health center. I have jokingly been accused of building my own old-age rehab. Even with all the good intentions of the practitioners, I still have major muscle weakness in my legs and core muscles.

Recently, I found out about toning tables. One of the practitioners, who has helped me over the years, and I did some research and found a company in England that makes the Multimaster Pilates Table.

What a coincidence that the table was developed in the 1930’s by Bernard Stauffer, a physiotherapist, whose wife suffered from Polio. He wanted to find a way of improving her mobility, flexibility and circulation without having to spend a lot of time massaging and manipulating her each day…and it worked!

Since then it has been on the cutting edge of health care – especially in Europe.

The unbelievable advantage of this table is that it provides power assisted exercise and rehabilitation. It works at my ability, passively or actively at multiple speeds with no muscle strain and no fatigue. Wow! For my needs, one can’t get any better than that. I just lie on the table and for 3 or 6 minutes, depending on which program is I choose, the table moves me. How can that help if I’m not doing the “grunt work?”

On this electronic machine, the muscles are exercised in a semi-passive state, known as Continuous Passive Motion or CPM, which works through repetitive, isokinetic movements to isolate muscle groups. These slow, continuous, smooth, and controlled workouts can even improve my overall health – physically, mentally and emotionally.

This Multimaster Pilates Table is suitable for people who

Lack or want to improve muscle tone, strength, endurance and range of motion

Want to lose weight

Use cross training to improve their favorite sport or exercise approach

Need to manage or rehabilitate physical challenges

Want new innovative ways to deal with stress and improve their mind

Over the years, the benefits of this machine have been proven again and again.

This way of exercising can help manage and rehabilitate many health conditions, including MS, Fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s, mobility issues, post-stoke, issues of aging and so much more.

Research at Oklahoma State University showed that 78 year olds exercising on this equipment for just 30 minutes, 2 times a week for 10 weeks resulted in

34% increased leg and 30% arm strength

50% improved muscle strength,

22% increased mobility, agility

33% increased balance

improved emotional benefits

This shows an amazing amount of improvement in just 10 weeks.

I have been on this table now a couple times a week for several weeks and when I get off, I walk so much easier. People have noticed that my gait has improved and I’m just getting started. I can say that the Multimaster Pilates Table is on its way to giving me back a much more productive, fun and healthier life. There is nothing greater than “hope” for the future and that is another gift the table is giving me.

]]>Help for Parkinson’s − the Natural Wayhttp://www.twinpondscenter.com/help-for-parkinsons-%e2%88%92-the-natural-way/
Tue, 17 Jan 2017 23:12:42 +0000http://www.twinpondscenter.com/?p=7756Tai chi, Macrobiotics, Shiatsu, Acupressure Scientific research recently has indicated that people with Parkinson’s who take Tai Chi classes have excellent outcomes for reduction of symptoms and increased mobility. This is very positive for those with this condition. It actually has more far reaching possibilities than was recognized in the report of the following study. Science has been slow to recognize some of the principles of Oriental Philosophy and Medicine and it is indicated in their interpretation of the results. OREGON RESEARCH INSTITUTE: 2012 − PARKINSON’S REPORT 195 people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s were randomly assigned 2 per week sessions of either Tai Chi, strength building exercises or stretching. After 6 months, those who did Tai Chi experienced: Stronger, improved balance − 2 times more than the strength building group & 4 times more than the stretching group Half the falls of the strength building group and 2/3 of the falls in the stretching group Slower rates of decline in overall motor control The report says that clients took Tai Chi and gave the results. The report did not recognize the fundamental nature of what Tai Chi is and what is happening when one is performing the movements. The basic aspect is that of Chi energy − a fundamental life force. Tai Chi is a movement exercise that changes and alters chi flow in the body, helps to build chi energy and balance the flow of energy thru the meridians (channels thru which the energy travels). If this manipulation of chi aids the Parkinson’s patient in gaining increased mobility, then it must be affecting the brain − improving its ability to regulate the neuro-muscular system and possibly affecting the nerves which stimulate dopamine production. The next thing to conclude is that if this form of energy manipulation can be successful, why not other forms such as Macrobiotic or Traditional Chinese dietary theories, Acupuncture, Shiatsu, Amma Massage, Chi Qong exercises, and more. As a Macrobiotic Way of Life Counselor, I make use of energetic signs and symptoms in the face, on the tongue, in behavior and in reading pulses, etc. to determine […]

Scientific research recently has indicated that people with Parkinson’s who take Tai Chi classes have excellent outcomes for reduction of symptoms and increased mobility. This is very positive for those with this condition. It actually has more far reaching possibilities than was recognized in the report of the following study. Science has been slow to recognize some of the principles of Oriental Philosophy and Medicine and it is indicated in their interpretation of the results.

OREGON RESEARCH INSTITUTE: 2012 − PARKINSON’S REPORT

195 people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s were randomly assigned 2 per week sessions of either Tai Chi, strength building exercises or stretching.

After 6 months, those who did Tai Chi experienced:

Stronger, improved balance − 2 times more than the strength building group & 4 times more than the stretching group

Half the falls of the strength building group and 2/3 of the falls in the stretching group

Slower rates of decline in overall motor control

The report says that clients took Tai Chi and gave the results. The report did not recognize the fundamental nature of what Tai Chi is and what is happening when one is performing the movements. The basic aspect is that of Chi energy − a fundamental life force. Tai Chi is a movement exercise that changes and alters chi flow in the body, helps to build chi energy and balance the flow of energy thru the meridians (channels thru which the energy travels).

If this manipulation of chi aids the Parkinson’s patient in gaining increased mobility, then it must be affecting the brain − improving its ability to regulate the neuro-muscularsystem and possibly affecting the nerves which stimulate dopamine production.

The next thing to conclude is that if this form of energy manipulation can be successful, why not other forms such as Macrobiotic or Traditional Chinese dietary theories, Acupuncture, Shiatsu, Amma Massage, Chi Qong exercises, and more.

As a Macrobiotic Way of Life Counselor, I make use of energetic signs and symptoms in the face, on the tongue, in behavior and in reading pulses, etc. to determine what a person needs. All foods have various energetic properties such as contacting/expanding, warming/cooling, and moving upward/downward, inside/outside. The foods may have energetic relationships with each of the 5 major solid organs − heart, spleen, pancreas, liver, lungs, kidneys. By assessing the energetic landscape of a person, we counter by recommending the foods which are going to do the opposite of the condition. This will bring the body into balance. Too much contracting needs expansive foods or styles of cooking. Too much fire needs foods with cooling energies. The fundamental principle behind Macrobiotics is to manipulate chi (energy) to find balance.

DIET HIGH IN VEGETABLES PROTECTS AGAINST PARKINSON’S

In an experiment at Yale University, 11 patients with Parkinson’s who ate a revised diet experienced reduced movement fluctuations and less need for drugs than patients following the standard modern way of eating.

Their healthy diet consisted of:

Whole grains

Green and yellow vegetables

Fresh fruit

Low in protein from animal and vegetable sources

They avoided:

All meats

Egg white

Gelatin

Dairy food

Beans and nuts

Chocolate and pastries

“On this diet, patients, can predictably expect daytime mobility, thus permitting near normal function and independence at home or on the job,” the researchers concluded.

In order to follow the Macrobiotic Way of Eating, proper food preparation is vital. It is possible that a cook could come to the home to prepare meals. But a caregiver or the Parkinson’s patient could get individualized cooking training so that an understanding of what goes into the preparations can be developed. In Traditional Oriental Medicine, Parkinson’s is usually defined as a Liver Wind condition (extreme toxic exposure) so healing the liver becomes a major component. Diet wise that may involve eating a lot of leafy green vegetables like kale and collards or eating shiitake mushrooms. Minimizing oil and extreme sweets is also a key factor. Sea vegetables in the diet like kelp and arame are helpful for discharging toxins from the body. There are numerous foods that can benefit the liver. Getting a full scale consultation can provide specific recommendations to insure good results.

SHIATSU TREATMENTS MOVE CHI TO REBALANCE BODY ENERGY

Shiatsu and Acupressure involve pressing points on the body which in turn affect how the internal systems are functioning. Shiatsu is a full body treatment done by a practitioner. Acupressure can be learned and points can be pressed by the Parkinson’s patient or a caregiver. For example: there is a point on the foot that is in the webbing between the big toe and second toe which relates to the liver meridian. If that point is sore it means the liver meridian is out of balance and there probably is a liver condition that needs addressing. Pressing there also changes the flow of energy and regular practice helps heal the liver. But each individual could also have other underlying conditions which should also be dealt with. Both Macrobiotics and Shiatsu can address all of these conditions to improve overall mobility and functioning. Combine this with Tai Chi and your chances of improving the condition are highly increased.